Psalms 127

1 A Song of Degrees. Except the Lord build the house, they that build labor in vain: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman watches in vain.

A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. A psalm of Solomon. If the Lord doesn't build the house, the work of the builders is futile. If the Lord doesn't guard the city, the work of the guards is pointless.

2 It is vain for you to rise early: you rise up after resting, you that eat the bread of grief; while he gives sleep to his beloved.

It's useless to get up early in the morning and go to work, and stay late into the evening, worrying about earning enough to eat, when the Lord gives rest to those he loves.

3 Behold, the inheritance of the Lord, children, the reward of the fruit of the womb.

Children certainly are a gift from the Lord, for a family is a blessing.

4 As arrows in the hand of a mighty man; so are the children of those who were outcasts.

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of a young man.

5 Blessed is the man who shall satisfy his desire with them: they shall not be ashamed when they shall speak to their enemies in the gates.

Happy is the father who fills his quiver with them! Such fathers will not be embarrassed when they confront their enemies at the city gate.